Lighting in a room in layers not only illuminates a room but the fixture itself can pull the room together. Lights can be a statement in a room. Lighting can be tough though because to find the right fixture is not necessarily an easy task. I help many people with their décor needs, and the light in the room is one more element that has to have serious consideration.
When I help clients, I look at their lighting fixtures. Why does it matter? Lighting is like a hair or clothing style, it can really date a room. A new light fixture in a room can transform it from ahh, to OOOH! When you are selling, lighting, if it looks like it from an era long ago gives the impression that probably nothing else in the house has been taken care of or replaced when needed.
Having the proper illumination is also important. You not only need a light for the ambiance, there is also the need for task lighting and accent lighting. Who knew right?
Ambiance lighting lights the entire room, think of it as general lighting. It’s the light that you use when you flip that switch to enter a room. These can be chandeliers, flush mount fixtures, recessed lighting or pendants. They will be in every room of your house, typically in the center of the room close to the ceiling. Knowing the right size and height will ensure you have the proper lighting for that room.
Next, consider task lighting. This is to illuminate an area when you are reading, grooming, cooking etc. These can be a table lamp, sconce, under cabinet light, floor lamp, pendant or recess. Consider the amount of light the fixture will provide. LED lighting is becoming very popular due to less energy used while providing the right amount of light. LED lighting is not only in a task light, many manufacturers are using it in all styles of lights to save you money!
Last would be accent lighting to use through a room. It highlights a specific detail in a space, such as a beautiful piece of art, or accessory, and highlighting architectural features. Wall sconces, recessed light, track lights are all examples of accent lighting. I have seen it used to highlight a tray ceiling in a room or attractive crown molding. Using sconces on either side of a fireplace draws your attention to the mantle. Accent lighting is that little surprise in the room that gives it the luxury feeling when done correctly.
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